Power motivation and achievement motivation are two essential social motives identified by psychologist David McClelland. These motives influence behavior in various personal and professional contexts, shaping how individuals interact with others and pursue their goals.

Power motivation is characterized by the desire to influence, control, or have an impact on others. It is shaped by an individual's experiences, social environment, and cultural context. People with high power motivation are often drawn to leadership roles where they can assert authority and make decisions. They prefer environments that allow them to exercise control, such as in business, politics, or competitive sports. This drive for power can manifest in different ways, from mentoring others to actively seeking status and recognition. Individuals with high power motivation may also engage in competitive activities to demonstrate their influence and achieve dominance within a group.

In contrast, achievement motivation focuses on the drive to achieve success and the urge to avoid failure. Individuals with high achievement motivation set challenging yet attainable goals and are driven to improve their performance continuously. They often select moderately difficult tasks that balance challenge and a realistic chance of success. Performance feedback is crucial for those with strong achievement motivation, enabling them to assess their progress and refine their strategies. For instance, an entrepreneur might exhibit high achievement motivation by persistently setting and meeting increasingly ambitious business targets, using each success as a stepping stone for further achievement.

Individuals can exhibit both power and achievement motivation, leading to complex behaviors and goals. For example, an athlete might display achievement motivation by striving to break personal records and improve performance. Simultaneously, they may demonstrate power motivation by assuming a leadership role, such as captain of a team, using their influence to guide and motivate their teammates. This combination allows for a dynamic approach to goal-setting and interpersonal interactions, often seen in various social and professional settings.